First Mini Mac Audi ... coming soon!
ORIGINAL: bhj0887
Why not use a slightly outdated (just to lower the cost) laptop with windows or linux software?
That's what I would do. And I'm almost contemplating it and putting something like the "Streets" software to use instead of a GPS.
You can put the laptop under the seat or if it's a thin one possibly behind the dash, set it up to recharge anytime the engine is running (it's one wire). Pull off the moniter and use the in-dash as the "new" screen.
Why not use a slightly outdated (just to lower the cost) laptop with windows or linux software?
That's what I would do. And I'm almost contemplating it and putting something like the "Streets" software to use instead of a GPS.
You can put the laptop under the seat or if it's a thin one possibly behind the dash, set it up to recharge anytime the engine is running (it's one wire). Pull off the moniter and use the in-dash as the "new" screen.
I know that Route 66 is out there for the Mac when it comes to GPS, but I may end up running a program on the Virtual PC for GPS Capabilities. I'm not sure. I'll have to test out a GPS software on my Powerbook in Virtual PC before I actually plan on relying on the Mac Mini for that functionality.
I was originally going to just use my Palm T3 for navigation with TomTom software, but at this rate, don't see the point in doing that when I'll have a carputer.
Buy a Powerbook and put it on the passenger seat.
I'd say get another center console and learn how to work with fiberglass. then you can mold the screen in and/or move the buttons and HVAC around a little bit. It really is a simple project, wiring is rediculously simple if you keep everything where it's supposed to be. Get it on wi-fi and you have a nice little uhhh...work station.
ORIGINAL: audi2302
Kinda confused about the mac mini what kind of screen do you use and is it touch or do u have to have a keyboard/mouse. Sounds like a sick idea though.
Kinda confused about the mac mini what kind of screen do you use and is it touch or do u have to have a keyboard/mouse. Sounds like a sick idea though.

It's a touch screen, and as of right now it's the cheapest and most compatible that I've found. Below are the specs:
This 7" VGA Touchscreen by Lilliput is great for any home or automotive entertainment application. The slim panel VGA screen provides a sharp, bright output and displays clear, readable text. The touchscreen feature, along with the included stylus, allows easy navigation without the need for an external mouse or keyboard. The wide screen format is great for watching DVDs or other videos and the composite audio and video inputs allow the screen to be hooked up to DVD players and video game systems.
Features:
# High quality 2400 x 480 resolution 16:9 wide screen format TFT Screen - ideal for movies and games
# VGA input and USB interface (touchscreen) for use with PC
# Composite video and audio connectors with cables included
# Slim remote and stylus included
# 110V AC adaptor and 12V DC power adaptor included
# Buttons glow blue during operation
# Fast switching between VGA and composite video sources via remote or on screen display
# Stand platform included
Specifications:
# Model: 619GL-70NP/C/T
# Screen size: 7 inches digital
# Ratio: 16:9 wide TFT screen
# Resolution: 1,152,000 pixels(2400X480 dots)
# Color configuration: RGB stripe
# Video system: PAL/NTSC
# 2 Video inputs plus 1 Audio input
# VGA input (USB interface)
# Touchscreen display
# IR remote control
# Full function Multi language On Screen Display (OSD) control
# Audio output: Speaker built-in
# Video input signal: 1.0Vp-p, composite video
# Computer display/S-video/DVD/VCD/Security system/Navigation system compatible. Rear view camera connectible
# Mount type: Dash board
# Power input: DC 12V
# Power consumption: 9W
# Software and drivers included
Features:
# High quality 2400 x 480 resolution 16:9 wide screen format TFT Screen - ideal for movies and games
# VGA input and USB interface (touchscreen) for use with PC
# Composite video and audio connectors with cables included
# Slim remote and stylus included
# 110V AC adaptor and 12V DC power adaptor included
# Buttons glow blue during operation
# Fast switching between VGA and composite video sources via remote or on screen display
# Stand platform included
Specifications:
# Model: 619GL-70NP/C/T
# Screen size: 7 inches digital
# Ratio: 16:9 wide TFT screen
# Resolution: 1,152,000 pixels(2400X480 dots)
# Color configuration: RGB stripe
# Video system: PAL/NTSC
# 2 Video inputs plus 1 Audio input
# VGA input (USB interface)
# Touchscreen display
# IR remote control
# Full function Multi language On Screen Display (OSD) control
# Audio output: Speaker built-in
# Video input signal: 1.0Vp-p, composite video
# Computer display/S-video/DVD/VCD/Security system/Navigation system compatible. Rear view camera connectible
# Mount type: Dash board
# Power input: DC 12V
# Power consumption: 9W
# Software and drivers included
you do need a touch screen, I all ready make 3 for my and my friends, Xernac is bether and the price is $390 or so.
I'd say get another center console
Anyone know where to get one of these?
I don't mean to sound dumb here, but better as in just the construction or as in screen quality, color, etc? I mean obviously I'm not looking for awesome resolution on it, I mean I want for it to look good, but I also want to spend as little as possible. Who doesn't right?


